Will Catalan football suffer if the region gains independence?

Published on 29/09/2017 - 12:27

Secession from Spain would likely have far-reaching consequences for Catalonia and not only in political terms.

Catalonia’s bid for independence could have consequences that go far beyond politics.

Football, for example, is Spain’s national sport. FC Barcelona sits in the centre of the Catalan capital and at the top of la Liga, but its future has been thrown into question.

The club has consistently highlighted its Catalan identity.

“With regard to the current political situation in Catalonia, FC.Barcelona is remaining faithful to its historic commitment to defend the nation, to democracy, to freedom of speech and to self-determination.
[…]
“Therefore FC.Barcelona publicly expresses its support for all people, entities and institutions that work to guarantee these rights”, said club spokesperson, Josep Vives

But at the same time, the club thrives on the challenge of regularly playing top-flight teams such as Real Madrid.

“It is a complicated debate. What I can’t see happening and I hope it doesn’t happen, is a (Spanish) league without Barcelona. I do not want that”, said Real coach Zinedine Zidane.

If forced into a new league, Barca risk not being challenged, their TV and sponsorship revenues would likely plummet and they may not be able to afford to keep top players.